Music PhD at Royal Holloway, University of London

Programme overview

The Department of Music is consistently rated as one of the top research departments in the UK with an international reputation of high distinction. We offer postgraduate research opportunities in a wide range of musical disciplines, with world-leading expertise in historical musicology, theory and analysis, performance as research, composition and ethnomusicology.

Department: Music | Duration: 4 years full time | Study mode: full-time | Location: Egham, England, United Kingdom

Career pathways

Many of our PhD graduates in Music have moved into post-doctoral research positions and other academic opportunities. Others have moved into portfolio careers as creative artists, performers, teachers, and/or researchers.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

A good first Bachelor honours degree at a 2:1 or equivalent. A Masters degree in Music, or in a related subject if the topic of research is interdisciplinary is typically required. Before applying we recommend securing a supervisor in order to apply for your research project, although this is not mandatory prior to submitting an application. We advise getting in touch with the Director of Postgraduate Education making an informal enquiry for your chosen research degree to inquire whether there is any other additional material they require you to submit in your application. A research proposal is required as part of the application. English language: IELTS: 6.5 overall. Writing 7.0. No other subscore lower than 5.5.

Domestic applicants: GBP 5,238 a year (2026/27) Source

International applicants: GBP 23,200 a year (2026/27) Source

Duration: 4 years full time

Apply through the official page: https://royalhollowayacuk.elluciancrmrecruit.com/Apply/Account/Login

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